Pope approves new papal funeral rites to simplify ritual, allow for burial outside the Vatican

On February 24, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed willingness to step down if it meant Ukraine could join the NATO military alliance on the third anniversary of Russia's invasion. He stated during a press conference at the "Ukraine. The Year 2025" forum that he would leave his post immediately if it led to peace for Ukraine. Zelensky's offer to resign in exchange for NATO membership was made to prioritize Ukraine's security and stability. Full...

Israel sent tanks into the West Bank for the first time since 2002, with the military preparing for "an extended stay" to combat terrorism in refugee camps, particularly in Jenin. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered increased military activity to thwart terrorism and prevent the return of residents who have fled the territory, with troops expected to remain for at least a year. This move comes amid a fragile ceasefire...

Hezbollah held a massive state-like funeral for its founder Hassan Nasrallah and successor Hashem Safieddine in Beirut, marking the end of an era for the militant group known for its resistance against Israel and the U.S. The funeral, attended by officials from many countries, featured a procession in a packed sports stadium with coffins draped in Hezbollah flags, followed by speeches reaffirming the group's commitment to resistance. Nasrallah's death, considered martyrdom by his followers, symbolized...

A man responds to his neighbor's urgent call for help when her husband collapses, performing CPR to the beat of "Stayin' Alive" until EMS arrives. Despite never having done CPR before and feeling afraid of death, he stays calm and focused, ensuring the man's dignity and comfort throughout the ordeal. The arrival of EMS brings a mix of relief and self-doubt as the man reflects on the intensity of the situation and his actions. Full...

Gemma Sisia was inspired to leave a legacy of helping children in sub-Saharan Africa after watching Live Aid in 1985, eventually founding the St Jude school in Tanzania. Despite facing resistance from her family, she married a Tanzanian safari driver and overcame obstacles to build the school from scratch. Gemma's determination and skills inherited from her upbringing on a farm enabled her to fulfill her dream and make a difference in the lives of many...

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended President Trump's firing of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., stating he was "not the right man for the moment." Hegseth also removed the chief of naval operations and military lawyers, arguing for a fresh approach. Senator Jack Reed criticized the firings as unjustified and a move to make the Defense Department subservient to the president, while Hegseth defended the decisions and emphasized...